Chapter 594

Archie and Benny exchanged a glance, suddenly afraid to answer their mother's question. They didn't like Lucian; they simply liked having a father figure to care for their mother. However, they sensed their mother's continued dislike for their father, causing them to hesitate.

A worry began to surface in Roxanne's heart. She saw the shift in their attitude toward Lucian. If this continued, and they grew to like and want to interact with him more, she wouldn't know how to refuse. After all, she'd been the one to deny them the right to live with their father.

Returning to her senses, she looked at the boys apologetically. "I... I don't know. However, if you two want that, I won't say no." She wouldn't invite Lucian, and she wouldn't be happy about his visits, but she would allow them to appease her children.

The boys, understanding her unspoken reservations, knew she still disliked their father visiting. "We just feel sorry for Essie," Benny and Archie said quietly, subtly distancing themselves from Lucian.

Roxanne sighed in relief, though a pang of guilt arose at the mention of Estella. "I pity her too, but..." Her mind went blank.

Thankfully, the boys changed the subject. "No need to feel sad, Mommy! We'll take good care of Essie. You just need to take care of yourself, Mommy!" It felt as if Roxanne were the child.

Warmth filled her heart as she patted their heads. "Thank you, darlings." They stayed a while longer before heading upstairs.

Lysa helped Roxanne to her room. After cleaning up, Roxanne lay in bed, unable to sleep. She wondered about Lucian. He was with Aubree, as he'd wanted. She'd made it clear she wouldn't cling to him as she had six years ago. Yet, it felt as if their roles had reversed; he kept appearing, despite their technically nonexistent relationship. His actions suggested a desire for closeness with her and the children.

Then, a realization struck her. She felt silly. No one understood her departure six years ago better than she did. She'd left because she knew Aubree's place in Lucian's heart. She knew he'd never choose her, and six years later, Aubree remained by his side. She didn't understand why he'd act this way while still in love with Aubree.

Self-deprecatingly, she bit her lip. She was deluding herself. Lucian was only caring for her because of Essie.

Silently, she resolved to avoid overthinking. As long as she kept her distance from Lucian, problems wouldn't arise.